Romantic holidays in the Seychelles

By Chantelle Howell

Photography by Matej Kastelic/Alamy

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With secluded sandy beaches, tropical rainforest, and fresh seafood, it’s easy to see why Prince William and Kate Middleton chose the Seychelles for their honeymoon. Local expat blogger, Chantelle Howell explores the islands’ most romantic escapes.

Best for amorous adventurers: Mahé

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Head to the west coast of the island to the beautiful and secluded Port Glaud Waterfall. You’ll find locals offering guides, take them up on their offer – it can be tricky to get there without knowing the route. These friendly guides are a great source of information about the area, sights and traditions.

Take a trip into the Morne Seychellois National Park, it’s a beautiful drive but also has plenty of hiking trails. Climb your way up through old tea plantations to the top of the highest mountain, Morne Seychellois – you may even spot the critically endangered jellyfish tree enroute, only found on Mahé.

The special thing about La Digue is how everyone gets about by bicycle and activities can be as chilled out or as adventurous as you choose

In the know

Every Wednesday from 16.00 you’ll find the Bazar Labrin at Beau Vallon serving up great Creole food, authentic souvenirs and traditional dances round fires on the beach. Beau Vallon also happens to be one of the finest places to watch the sun setting.

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  • Explore the intriguing sea life with a coastal scuba dive © Getty

    Dive in

    Octopus Diver offers a variety of exciting dives for all levels. Beginners will love St Pierre Islet where you can see stonefish and whitetip sharks. Book flights from London to Seychelles, plus a seven night hotel stay from:

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  • Enjoy a romantic dinner with ocean views

    Bird’s eye view

    The Nest restaurant serves up delicious Creole creations for lunch (12.00-15.30) and dinner (19.00-22.30) – and don’t forget to book.

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  • Get up close with the wildlife at Curieuse Marine National Park & Reserve © Alamy

    The slow lane

    Esmeralda, a giant Aldabran tortoise that lives on Bird Island, is thought to be the heaviest free roaming tortoise in the world, and one of the oldest.

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Get a taste

For the best Seychellois comfort food, you can’t beat the iconic Creole restaurant Marie Antoinette. Dishes are prepared in a traditional way, using local organic ingredients, and the time-honoured menu has virtually remained unchanged since it opened its doors in 1972.

One of the most famous restaurants in the Seychelles is La Scala owned and run by Italian couple Gianni and Silvana. Expect Italian-Creole fusion food with a seafood focus. If you want a table, book early – preferably before you even arrive in the Seychelles.

Best for nature lovers: Praslin

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Take a boat trip from Praslin (connect to Praslin from Mahé by a 50-minute fast ferry), and discover the Curieuse Marine National Park and reserve. For an exclusive intimate feel, charter a private yacht for the day and explore some of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles. Continue the marine theme with a 5-star scuba diving experience from Praslin with Octopus Divers.

If you prefer dry land, try the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, which is home to the rather racy coco de mer (the worlds largest nut), as well as the indigenous black parrot – listen out for its beautiful whistle. Alternatively, head to Fond Ferdinand reserve, with its more rugged paths and magnificent views on the island.

In the know

Don’t miss Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette. Take a picnic and enjoy the sunset followed by the unparalleled starlit skies.

  • La Digue is easy to explore by bicycle © Getty

Get a taste

For lunch take a stop at Bonbon Plume on Anse Lazio. Enjoy fresh creole food with your feet in the sand – call ahead (+248 4 232 136) to guarantee a good spot.

For a romantic dinner try Nest Restaurant. See if you can snag one of the two tables just outside the restaurant on the rocks looking over the Ocean – its advisable to book in advance.

Best for the laid-back romance: La Digue

Check it out

The special thing about La Digue (just a 15-minute fast ferry from Praslin) is how everyone gets about by bicycle and activities can be as chilled out or as adventurous as you choose. Hire your bike near the jetty and set off on your own adventure on this beautiful island, there are plenty of beautiful little beaches to discover such as Anse Bonnet Carré, you might find you have it all to yourselves.

No trip to La Digue is complete without visiting L’Union Estate. You’ll find giant tortoises, an authentic traditional Copra mill and of course the world famous Anse Source D’Argent – said to be the most photographed beach in the world. For a spot of pampering and relaxation, book in for a couples’ treatment at Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie Spa.

In the know

For some time out, take a left from the jetty to George Camille’s Studio and Gallery. One of the Seychelles most-famous and well-loved artists, his gallery is well worth a visit.

Get a taste

Eagle’s Nest is the place for an unmissable dining experience. It’s a pretty big trek up so it might be best to arrange a lift, speak to any locals and they’ll point you in the direction of someone who can taxi you up there. The views are truly exceptional while you enjoy a drink watching the sun set over Praslin Island. Dinner at Snack Bellevue is a simple but delicious offering of fresh Creole cooking.